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Based on the SDSU campus in Brookings, Royall’s role will include providing relevant, up-to-date research to South Dakota swine producers, and promoting the benefits of pork production and consumption to the public.
Originally from a small town in west Texas, Royall said he is excited to build relationships with local and regional pork producers.
“From the time I stepped on campus, it has been clear that the pork producers of South Dakota are passionate people who are driven to be leaders in the industry and expect the same out of the SDSU research and extension professionals they work with,” he said. “I look forward to collaborating with the producers of the state to continuously advance our industry.”
Royall has a bachelor’s degree in animal science from Texas Tech University and earned both his master’s and doctorate degrees in animal science from Kansas State University. His professional experience includes working for Beyers Farms Texas, Texas Pork Producers, Kansas State University and JBS Live Pork, where he managed a research team on a 7,500-head sow farm.
He grew up immersed in extension programs through his dad, a longtime county extension agent and administrator. He showed livestock and competed in livestock judging in 4-H and in college; since graduating, he has helped coach youth judging activities.
Sandy Smart, SDSU Extension Agriculture and Natural Resources Senior Program Leader and professor, praised Royall’s mix of academic and hands-on experience in swine science and production.
“Rafe comes to SDSU with a strong academic background in swine science, and judging wool, meat, livestock and animal evaluation. Also, he understands production-oriented research that managers need to be more efficient and productive,” Smart said. “We are lucky to have Rafe join SDSU Extension.”
March 11, 2025 - South Dakota State University Extension
